Horror Franchises Thriving with New Sequels and Revivals

LOS ANGELES, CA — Horror fans are buzzing with excitement over the latest developments in their favorite franchises as 2025 shapes up to be a landmark year for the genre, featuring new sequels and revivals.

On October 19, 2025, showrunner Brad Caleb Kane announced that filming for Season 1 of Peacock and A24’s much-anticipated series, Crystal Lake, is nearing completion. In a celebratory social media post, Kane expressed his gratitude for the talented cast, including Linda Cardellini as Pamela Voorhees and Gwendolyn Sundstrom as Grace. This new series aims to honor and reshape the legacy of the iconic Friday the 13th franchise.

Kane’s passion for the project shines through, especially as he reflects on his childhood fascination with Jason Voorhees. “From the moment I watched Jason Voorhees squeeze a guy’s eyeball out of its socket (in glorious 3D!) at the tender age of 8 years old, I knew my creative path was someday destined to converge with The Man Behind The Mask,” he said.

This resurgence in horror franchises comes on the heels of critical acclaim for Final Destination Bloodlines, released earlier this year. The film was praised for its inventive storytelling and the return of iconic character Tony Todd. It features a thrilling skyscraper sequence that captivates both new viewers and loyal fans.

Moreover, the recent release of Black Phone 2 on October 17, 2025, has added to the excitement. Directed by Scott Derrickson, the follow-up to the 2022 hit maintains its predecessor’s chilling essence while venturing into new territory. The film focuses on Gwen (Madeleine McGraw), who receives ominous calls from a mysterious black phone as she navigates the aftermath of horrific events. Reviewers have highlighted McGraw’s performance and the film’s ability to balance horror with deeper emotional layers.

As horror sequels and franchises receive renewed interest, fans are eager to explore the characteristic twists that redefined earlier entries. The year’s earlier revelations, such as a recent roundup of the best sixth films in major franchises—like Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith—further solidify this resurgence in quality sequels.

With Kane’s Crystal Lake set to splash into the limelight, Black Phone 2 terrifying audiences, and a renewed appreciation for horror’s most inventive sequels, 2025 is proving to be a banner year for the genre. Whether motivated by nostalgia, curiosity, or a desire for fresh scares, there’s no better time for horror fans to dive back into their favorite franchises.